In the pantheon of offbeat Washington destinations, is there a more charming entry than Longview's bridge for squirrels? This weird Washington attraction has become a treasured piece of local lore. Not only has the bridge lasted over 60 years, but it's also inspired a community celebration, the summertime Squirrel Fest! Learn more about the remarkable and totally quirky Nutty Narrows!
You could pass right through the Nutty Narrows intersection without ever noticing it, but— in a poetic way— is that not how we relate to squirrels? Fluffy-tailed and eternally industrious, squirrels are ubiquitous to American life. That doesn't mean this successful little creature doesn't deserve its flowers.
Nutty Narrows allows squirrels to cross the road in style. Before its construction, the busy intersection was a dangerous place for bold rodents. On the journey to reach nut trees outside R. A. Long Park, dozens of squirrels fell victim to traffic, leading locals to brainstorm solutions as early as 1960.
Longview City Council took action, approving plans for a 60-foot suspension bridge that would protect the town's fluffy-tailed from harm. The bridge's longevity is no surprise. Architects Robert Newhalla and LeRoy Dahl designed it to last, creating a landmark whose engineering proved far more sound than its namesake, the ill-fated Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
In the six decades since, Longview has developed a healthy pride for its unlikely attraction. Today, the town even comes together for an annual Squirrel Fest, a free celebration of squirrels that promises nutty fun for all.
As many as 3,500 people participate in this oddball bash at Longview's Civic Circle, which boasts a variety of foods from local vendors and an array of family-friendly activities. Slated for Saturday, August 17 of this year, it's a guaranteed hit, even if you're not a squirrel.
Though its mythology has since evolved, Nutty Narrows is, first and foremost, a fantastic example of humans coming together to help their animal neighbors. In that sense, it's utterly wholesome, representing the best of people and their capacity for empathy. The odd and earnest traditions that have evolved from this initial caring act have cemented this whacky landmark as one of Washington's best.
If you're looking for a weird Washington attraction to delight you and your family, check out Nutty Narrows. Better yet, swing through this summer's Squirrel Fest. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, it's a heartwarming celebration of good samaritanship, promising nutty fun for all ages.
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